Is Lockitron Your Future Home Entry Security System?

We're not sure whether people tend to forget their cell phones or their house keys more often these days, but although they're both commonly forgotten, you're more out of luck if you lock yourself out. Here's a hardware+app solution which replaces the standard deadbolt, door handle, door knob an seven apartment building buzzers with an automated entry system, using any internet connected smartphone as a virtual house key, offering a tech solution for the

High tech entry systems don't come cheap, but considering big brands like Schlage's Wireless Deadboly starter systems begin at $299, the Lockitron kits are within reason, beginning in the same ballpark of $295. The system is designed to be self-installed, consisting of a base station, USB remote, deadbolt or door handle and hardware to connect everything to your door and also to your home network.

We like Lockitron hasn't tacked on any additional monthly feed for the standard service, but there is the additional option of enabling text message access, which permits you to give access to guests from afar (possibly a snazzy feature for people who rent out vacation homes).

One grey cloud over Lockitron's parade is the fact the product is still in beta mode, and there's a disclaimer, "certain aspects of its operation might, at times, not perform as expected." This mostly relates to wireless range issues, but can be circumvented with the use of the use of backup keys and a USB remote fob. Also, it currently appears this beta version is only available as a Touch app for the iOS devices. Hopefully we see see an Android and Windows Phone version in the final version. Seems promising and we're intrigued enough to want to pursue a possible future product post to report a hands-on experience and see whether a small company has improved a segment in which larger companies have done a so-so job thus far.